Optical fiber distribution frame with outside plant enclosure

ABSTRACT

A fiber optic telecommunications frame is provided including panels having front and rear termination locations, the panels positioned on left and right sides of the frame. The frame includes vertical access for the rear cables. The frame further includes left and right vertical cable guides for the front patch cables. The frame further includes cable storage spools for the patch cables. The frame includes a horizontal passage linking the left and right panels and the cable guides. A portion of the frame defines splice tray holders and a central passage from the splice tray holders to the rear sides of the left and right panels. From a front of each panel, access to a rear of the panel is provided by the hinged panels. Alternatively, the panels can form connector modules with front termination locations and rear connection locations for connecting to the rear cables. The modules can house couplers, such as splitters, combiners, and wave division multiplexers. The termination locations can be located on the same side of the frame as the splice tray holders, or on an opposite side. An enclosure of the frame included hinged or otherwise moveable panels to allow access to the terminations or the splice trays.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 13/198,218,filed Aug. 4, 2011, which is a continuation of application Ser. No.12/806,239, filed Aug. 5, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,019,192, which is acontinuation of application Ser. No. 12/070,541, filed Feb. 19, 2008,now U.S. Pat. No. 7,805,043, which is a continuation of application Ser.No. 11/401,680, filed Apr. 10, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,333,707, whichis a continuation of application Ser. No. 10/942,734, filed Sep. 15,2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,139,461, which is a continuation of Ser. No.10/759,680, filed Jan. 19, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,149,398, which is acontinuation of application Ser. No. 09/716,627, filed Nov. 20, 2000,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,760,531, which is a continuation-in-part ofapplication Ser. No. 09/577,779, filed May 24, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No.6,556,763, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No.09/563,210, filed May 2, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,535,682, which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/412,674, filed Oct. 5,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,424,781, which is a continuation-in-part ofapplication Ser. No. 09/325,584, filed Jun. 3, 1999, now abandoned,which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/259,860,filed Mar. 1, 1999, now abandoned; the disclosures of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention pertains to the telecommunications industry. Moreparticularly, this invention pertains to a high-density fiberdistribution frame for use in the telecommunications industry.

2. Description of the Prior Art

In the telecommunications industry, use of fiber optic cables forcarrying transmission signals is rapidly growing. To connect fiber opticequipment, fiber distribution frames have been developed. Examples ofprior art fiber distribution frames are shown in commonly assigned U.S.Pat. Nos. 4,995,688; 5,497,444; and 5,758,003. In each of the fiberdistribution frames of the prior patents, a plurality of adapters areprovided which permit attachment of fiber optic connectors to both sidesof each adapter in order to optically couple two fiber optic cables.Cables from the adapters are connected to various pieces of fiber opticequipment. Using patch cords or cables between the adapters, the piecesof optical equipment are then cross-connected through the frame. Theframe defines a demarcation point between the equipment.

The use of modular fiber optic connector modules is known for performingso-called cross-connect applications. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,432,875 and5,363,465, and PCT Publication WO00/05611 to ADC Telecommunications,Inc. concern fiber optic connector modules and chassis designs forreceiving the modules in cross-connect applications.

Outside plant enclosures provide support and enclosure structure forcross-connecting outside plant cables. Cables enter the enclosure fromthe ground. The cables are then cross-connected through patch cords andconnector arrays arranged on a frame within the enclosure.

Notwithstanding advances previously made in the art, there is acontinuous need for further advances to maintain a high-density ofconnector terminals. There are further needs for ready access to thefiber optic connectors and couplers, enhanced fiber management, andavoidance of excessive bending and stresses on the fiber optic cables.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention relates to a fiber distributionframe comprising a rack extending vertically from a bottom to a top, therack defining a left side, a right side, a front, and a rear. The frameincludes a left vertical cable guide with a side access on the left sideof the rack, and a right vertical cable guide with a side access on theright side of the rack. At least a portion of the frame defines a cabletermination area. The termination area includes: (1) a first paneldefining an array of termination locations on a front portion, the firstpanel positioned on the left side of the rack adjacent to the leftvertical cable guide, and (2) a second panel defining an array oftermination locations on a front portion, the second panel positioned onthe right side of the rack adjacent to the right vertical cable guide. Acentral cable passageway extends between the first and second panels.The frame also includes a horizontal passageway for patch cablespositioned on the front side of the rack extending between the rightvertical cable guide, and the left vertical cable guide. The first andsecond panels may receive individual adapters, being sized for mountingto cable connectors. Alternatively, the panels may be defined byadapters associated with modular units for housing fiber couplers, suchas splitters, combiners, and wave division multiplexers. Cables from thecentral cable passageway are optically linked through the panels to thetermination locations.

In some preferred embodiments the frame also includes a cable splicearea positioned on the rack with the cable splice area defining aplurality of splice tray holders. In this embodiment, the frame furtherincludes a cable passageway from the splice tray holders to the centralcable passageway.

The splice tray holders may be on the same side of the rack or on anopposite side. Cable storage features may also be provided on the rack,in some preferred embodiments. The frame may include an enclosure withpivoting doors to protect internal components.

In one example environment of fiber distribution within a building, theframe may be located in a telecommunications equipment room adjacent toother frames. The termination area may be conveniently located in anupper area of the frame, and the splice area may be conveniently locatedin a lower area of the frame. In an example outside plant environment,the frame with enclosure is located over the outside plant cables. Thetermination area may be conveniently located on one side of the frame,and the splice area may be located on an opposite side.

The present invention also relates to a fiber optic termination modulecomprising a housing having first and second spaced-apart ends, andfirst and second spaced-apart sides extending between the ends. Thehousing includes a rear extending between the first and second ends, andthe first and second sides to define an interior. The housing defines anopen front, with the first and second ends extending generallyhorizontally when the termination module is mounted to atelecommunications rack, and the first and second sides extendinggenerally vertically when the termination module is mounted to thetelecommunications rack. A main panel closes the open front and includesan array of openings arranged and sized for holding adapters, with theadapters being sized for mounting to cable connectors. The main panelmay be made of sub-panels, including panels associated with modularunits received in the termination module. The termination module whichreceives the modular units preferably includes shelves, slides, guides,or other structure for holding each unit. Preferably, the main panel isat a non-perpendicular angle relative to a plane defined by the rear. Insome embodiments, the termination module can be reversed in verticalorientation between left and right sides of the rack.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to a fiber opticmodule including a housing having two spaced-apart major sidesinterconnected by two spaced-apart minor sides, and a rear notch. On afront of the housing, a plurality of front adapters are provided for usein connecting to cable connectors. The rear notch of the module includesa side segment presenting a plurality of rear adapters for connecting tofurther cable connectors. Cables are disposed within the housing forconnecting the rear adapters with the front adapters. Preferably, thefront is at a non-perpendicular angle relative to a plane defined by theminor sides. The module preferably includes at least one side flangeextending from one of the major sides, and two front flanges extendingfrom the front for mounting to a fiber optic termination module or otherrack structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front, top and right side perspective view of a firstembodiment of a fiber distribution frame according to the presentinvention, with portions shown in exploded view, and with the frontdoors removed;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the frame of FIG. 1, showing the upper frontdoors in the open positions, and the lower front doors in the closedpositions;

FIG. 3 is a right side view of the frame of FIG. 1, showing the upperand lower doors in the closed positions;

FIG. 4 is a front, top and right side perspective view of one of thetermination modules in the frame of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the termination module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a front, top and right side perspective view of thetermination module of FIG. 4, shown with the main panel and the cableaccess door pivoted to open positions;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the termination module of FIG. 6 with the mainpanel and the cable access door in the open positions;

FIG. 8 is a front, top and left side perspective view of the terminationmodule, with portions removed, and with the main panel in the openposition, showing exemplary cable pathways;

FIG. 9 is a front, top and right side perspective view of the mainhousing of the termination module;

FIG. 10 is a front view of the main housing of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional top view of the frame taken along lines11-11 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional top view of the frame taken along lines12-12 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional top view of the frame taken along the lines13-13 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 14 is a front, top and right side perspective view of a secondembodiment of a fiber distribution frame according to the presentinvention, with portions shown in exploded view;

FIG. 15 is a front view of the frame of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a right side view of the frame of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a front, top and right side perspective view of one of thetermination modules in the frame of FIG. 14;

FIG. 18 is a top view of the termination module of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a front, top and right side perspective view of thetermination module of FIG. 17, shown with the main panel pivoted to theopen position;

FIG. 20 is a top view of the termination module of FIG. 19 with the mainpanel in the open position;

FIG. 21 is a front, top and left side perspective view of thetermination module of FIG. 17, with the main panel in the open position,showing exemplary cable pathways;

FIG. 22 is a front, top and right side perspective view of the mainhousing of the termination module of FIG. 17;

FIG. 23 is a front view of the main housing of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a top view of the frame of FIG. 14;

FIG. 25 is a front, top and right side perspective view of a thirdembodiment of a fiber distribution frame according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 26 is a front, top and right side perspective view of the frame of

FIG. 25, showing features in exploded view;

FIG. 27 is a front, top and right side perspective view of the frame ofFIG. 25, showing the splice tray assembly in a reversed orientation tothe frame of FIG. 25;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an upper cable ring from the frame ofFIGS. 25-27;

FIG. 29 is a top view of the cable ring of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a front, top and right side perspective view of a fourthembodiment of a fiber distribution frame according to the presentinvention, with portions of the frame removed, and with one of thepanels in a pivoted open position;

FIG. 31 is a front view of the frame of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a front, top and right side perspective view of an upperportion of the frame of FIG. 30;

FIG. 33 is a front, top and left side perspective view of one of thetermination modules in the frame of FIG. 30;

FIG. 34 is a front, top and left side perspective view of thetermination module of FIG. 33, shown with the main panel pivoted to theopen position;

FIG. 35 is a front, top and left side perspective view of thetermination module of FIG. 34, with the main panel in the open position,showing exemplary cable pathways;

FIG. 36 is a front, top and right side perspective view of thetermination module shown in FIG. 35 with the exemplary cable pathways;

FIG. 37 is a front, top and right side perspective view of a terminationmodule like the view of FIG. 35, and showing a protective cable covermounted to the main panel; the termination module of FIG. 37 configuredand arranged for the left side of the frame of FIG. 30;

FIG. 38 is a front, top and left side perspective view of a fifthembodiment of a fiber distribution frame according to the presentinvention, with the termination locations not shown, and with a lowerportion of the frame shown with the cable management structure removed;

FIG. 39 is a front view of the frame of FIG. 38;

FIG. 40 is a top view of the frame of FIG. 38;

FIG. 41 is a front, top and left side perspective view of one of thetermination modules from the right side of the frame of FIG. 38 forholding connector modules;

FIG. 42 is a rear, top and left side perspective view of the terminationmodule of FIG. 41;

FIG. 43 is a front, top and right side perspective view of thetermination module of FIG. 41, shown without the connector modules;

FIG. 44 is a rear, top and right side perspective view of thetermination module of FIG. 43;

FIG. 45 is a front view of the termination module of FIG. 43;

FIG. 46 is a right side view of the termination module of FIG. 43;

FIG. 47 is a rear view of the termination module of FIG. 43;

FIG. 48 is a left side view of the termination module of FIG. 43;

FIG. 49 is a top view of the termination module of FIG. 43;

FIG. 50 is a front, top and right side perspective view of one of theconnector modules removed from the termination module of FIG. 41;

FIG. 51 is a rear, top and right side perspective view of the connectormodule of the termination module of FIG. 50;

FIG. 52 is a front view of the connector module of FIG. 50;

FIG. 53 is a right side view of the connector module of FIG. 50;

FIG. 54 is a rear view of the connector module of FIG. 50;

FIG. 55 is a left side view of the connector module of FIG. 50;

FIG. 56 is a top view of the connector module of FIG. 50;

FIGS. 57 and 58 are top views of the connector module of FIG. 50, shownwith the top cover removed, exposing the internal connectors, cables,couplers, and related fiber management structure for one exampleconfiguration;

FIG. 59 is a front, top and left side perspective view of a sixthembodiment of a fiber distribution frame according to the presentinvention, with portions removed;

FIG. 60 is a front view of the frame of FIG. 59;

FIG. 61 is a top view of the frame of FIG. 59;

FIG. 62 is a front, top and left side perspective view of a seventhembodiment of a fiber distribution frame according to the presentinvention, with portions removed;

FIG. 63 is a front view of the frame of FIG. 62;

FIG. 64 is a front, top and right side perspective view of thetermination module from the right side of the frame of FIG. 62;

FIG. 65 is a rear, top and left side view of the termination module ofFIG. 64;

FIG. 66 is a front, top and left side perspective view of an alternativetermination module to the termination module of FIGS. 64 and 65;

FIG. 67 is a front, top and right side perspective view of the connectormodule used in the termination module of FIG. 66, shown without adaptersor retainers;

FIG. 68 is a rear, top and left side perspective view of the connectormodule of FIG. 67;

FIG. 69 is a front view of the connector module of FIG. 67;

FIG. 70 is a top view of the connector module of FIG. 67;

FIG. 71 is a rear, top and right side view of the connector module ofFIG. 67;

FIG. 72 is a rear view of the connector module of FIG. 67;

FIG. 73 is a front, top and right side perspective view of analternative connector module to the connector module of FIG. 67,including two rows of openings;

FIG. 74 is a rear, top and left side perspective view of the connectormodule of FIG. 73;

FIG. 75 is a front view of the connector module of FIG. 73;

FIG. 76 is a top view of the connector module of FIG. 73;

FIG. 77 is a front, top and right side perspective view of an eighthembodiment of a fiber distribution frame according to the presentinvention, with access panels of an enclosure shown in the openpositions;

FIG. 78 is a rear, top, and right side perspective view of the fiberdistribution frame of FIG. 77;

FIG. 79 is a perspective view like FIG. 77, showing portions of theenclosure removed;

FIG. 80 is a front view of the view of FIG. 79;

FIG. 81 is a perspective view like FIG. 78, showing portions of theenclosure removed;

FIG. 82 is a rear view of the view of FIG. 81;

FIG. 83 is a top view of the views of FIGS. 79-81;

FIG. 84 is a front, top and right side perspective view of a ninthembodiment of a fiber distribution frame similar to the embodiment ofFIGS. 77-83 with modified storage spools;

FIG. 85 is a front view of the frame of FIG. 84, with portions of theenclosure removed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, one preferred embodiment of a bay or frame 20 isshown for splicing, terminating, and managing fiber optic cables withinthe frame. Further features of frame 20 are shown in FIGS. 4-13. Anupper portion 22 of frame 20 defines a termination and storage area. Alower portion 24 of frame 20 defines a splice area. Cables containingone or more individual optical fibers enter frame 20 typically from anoverhead cable environment through a top 26 of frame 20, or from araised floor environment at a bottom 28 of frame 20. If the cables arepre-terminated, the cables extend directly to termination and storagearea 22. If the cables entering frame 20 are not pre-terminated, thecables extend to splice area 24 for splicing to terminated cables. Fromsplice area 24, the cables then extend to termination and storage area22. In termination and storage area 22, a plurality of accessibletermination locations are provided for the terminated cables and forconnecting other cables to the terminated cables, such as patch cords orcables. Utilizing patch cables, telecommunications equipment can becross-connected between the termination locations through frame 20.

Frame 20 includes a rack 30 which supports a plurality of terminationmodules 32. In the preferred embodiment, left and right arrays 34, 36 oftermination modules 32 are provided. Each array 34, 36 in theillustrated embodiment includes three individual termination modules 32a (left side), 32 b (right side).

Rack 30 also supports an inner bay management panel 40 positionedbetween arrays 34, 36 of termination modules 32 for organizing andstoring excess lengths of patch cables. Preferably, inner bay managementpanel 40 includes a vertical array of individual modules or sections 40a. By providing individual termination modules 32 a, 32 b and individualsections 40 a of inner bay management panel 40 all of which areseparately mountable to rack 30, these modules can be added at differenttimes to rack 30, and replaced, if desired. Also, customized frames 20can be provided where other fiber optic management equipment may beutilized in one or more of the areas in rack 30 instead of the sixtermination modules 32 a, 32 b and the three sections 40 a of inner baymanagement panel 40 of the illustrated embodiment.

Rack 30 further supports a splice tray assembly 44, for holding aplurality of splice trays 46. In the preferred embodiment, frame 20includes two vertically stacked splice tray assemblies 44. Each splicetray 46 includes structure for holding the ends of a plurality of fiberoptic cables, and for holding individual splices between the ends of thecables. A variety of splice trays 46 may be used. Example splice traysare shown in commonly assigned U.S. application Ser. No. 09/158,182,filed Sep. 21, 1998, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference.

Rack 30 further supports a horizontal cable tray 50 positioned betweentermination and storage area 22 and splice area 24. Horizontal tray 50supports patch cables on a front of frame 20 extending between the leftand right arrays 34, 36 of termination modules 32 and inner baymanagement panel 40. Tray 50 also supports patch cables extendingbetween frame 20 and further frames 20 or other telecommunicationsequipment in an adjacent area.

Frame 20 preferably includes hingedly mounted upper front doors 52, 54,and hingedly mounted lower front doors 56, 58 for protection of thecables, connectors, adapters and splice trays. Upper front doors 52, 54pivot about vertical axes. Lower front doors 56, 58 pivot abouthorizontal axes. The doors preferably include one or more latches 59 toretain them in the closed positions.

Rack 30 further supports two vertical cable guides 60, 62, one on eachside of rack 30, for use in managing and protecting patch cablesadjacent to a front of frame 20. Cable guides 60, 62 include a pluralityof spaced-apart fingers 65 which permit cable access to an interior ofeach of cable guides 60, 62 through a vertical side of each guide. Inthe illustrated embodiment, each cable guide 60, 62 also includes hingeplates 64 for forming a portion of the hinge for upper front doors 52,54. Each cable guide 60, 62 is preferably made in segments, as part ofthe modular design of frame 20.

For ease of assembly, and versatility in use, components making up frame20 are preferably separate components held together by fasteners. Forexample, in the illustrated embodiment, termination modules 32, innerbay management panel 40, splice tray assemblies 44, cable tray 50, andcable guides 60, 62 are separate from rack 30.

Frame 20 defines various access openings to permit cables to enter frame20. At bottom 28 of frame 20, a center opening 66 allows cables to enterframe 20 from a raised floor environment. Central passage 68 allows thecables to pass to the individual splice trays 46. Ties 69 (FIGS. 11 and12) are provided to securely tie the incoming cables to frame 20. Acentral opening 70 in cable tray 50 links splice area 24 to terminationand storage area 22. Adjacent to top 26 of frame 20, access openings areprovided by a rear central opening 72 or two top openings 74, 76, one ineach top termination module 32. For pre-terminated cables, the cablescan be passed directly through top openings 74, 76 for termination inthe termination modules 32. For cables which are spliced to terminatedcables, rear opening 72 opens into a rear vertical passage 78 whichextends down to splice area 24, and ties 69, for splicing to thetermination cables at splice trays 46.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 13, each section 40 a of inner baymanagement panel 40 includes a center section 80, two forwardlyextending opposed sides 82, 84, and one or more vertically spacedcentral spools 86 forwardly extending from center section 80. Spools 86provide for storage of excess cable lengths for patch cables, such asthe patch cables extending between left and right arrays 34, 36 oftermination modules 32. Preferably, each section 40 a includes twospools 86, such that when only one section is provided, cable storagecapability is provided.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2, and 12, each splice tray assembly 44includes a main horizontal support 90, a main back support 91, aplurality of divider walls 92, and plurality of spool cradles orsupports 94, for supporting each of splice trays 46 having a round outerperimeter. Divider walls 92 extend vertically in the illustratedembodiment. Main horizontal support 90 has an open middle 90 a for cablepassage. A cable guide finger 96, and a cable tie 98 are provided tosecurely retain the cables to frame 20. Such permits removal of splicetrays 46 from splice tray assembly 44, and the unwinding of the ends ofthe cable from splice tray 46 without excessive stresses or movements ofthe cables. In the illustrated embodiment, divider walls 92 extendvertically. In other embodiments, the divider walls can be angled withrespect to the vertical, or even horizontal. While each splice trayassembly 44 is shown as part of frame 20, the splice trays could bestored separate from frame 20, if desired.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, and 11, horizontal cable tray 50 includes amain horizontal portion 99 including central opening 70, two opposed andupwardly extending curved cable guides 101 on each side of centralopening 70, and a center cover 102 over central opening 70. Curvedguides 101 protect cables extending from splice area 24 to terminationand storage area 22. Center cover 102 prevents stored patch cables fromhanging down from inner bay management panel 40 into splice area 24. Cutouts 104 on each end of horizontal tray 50 can be filled in withhorizontal supports for supporting cables extending horizontally, ordownwardly curved supports, if cables are directed downwardly from frame20. Horizontal cable tray 50 also includes a front wall 105, and a rearwall 106 extending from main horizontal portion 99.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-10, each termination module 32 includes a top110, a bottom 112, opposed sides 114, 116, and a rear 118. Theillustrated module 32 is from right array 36. Preferably, each oftermination modules 32 a, 32 b are identical, but positioned in aflipped orientation. Therefore, top 110 and bottom 112 would be in thereversed orientation for the left array 34 of modules 32.

Each termination module 32 defines an open front 120 preferably closedoff by a first smaller door 122 and a second larger door 124, both ofwhich are hingedly mounted to a remainder of termination module 32 aboutvertical axes. First door 122 defines a cable access door, especiallyuseful for allowing cables to enter the termination module 32 and forpositioning cables passing between locations on frame 20, such as cableextending between splice area 24, and an upper termination module 32positioned above the particular termination module 32. Cable access door122 is rotatably mounted to side 114 by a hinge 126.

Second door 124 defines a main panel 124 and is rotatably mounted toside 116 by a second hinge 128. Main panel 124 includes a plurality ofrows 130 of openings 132 each sized for holding an adapter 134. Adapters134 each include at least two aligned openings, one on a front side 134a, and the other on a rear side 134 b for holding two connectors 142 tooptically connect the connectors and the cables connected to theconnectors. Various adapters 134 can be utilized including an adapter ofthe type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,317,663, constructed so as to have thecommonly known SC configuration for receiving an SC connector on eachend. Other adapters/connectors styles can be utilized including ST, FC,E-2000, and other styles. Preferably, main panel 124 includes six upperrows 130 of eight openings each, and six lower rows 130 of eightopenings each. If desired, less than eight of the openings can beutilized for a given application. In the illustrated embodiment,adapters 134 snap mount to main panel 124 with a clip 135. Designationstrips (not shown) can be provided to label each of openings 132.

Rear connectors 142 b are connected to the cables entering frame 20 fromthe telecommunications equipment. A rear 140 of main panel 124 isprimarily utilized as a semi-permanent connection between the connectors142 b and adapters 134. A front 138 of main panel 124 defines aplurality of accessible termination locations which can be connectedbetween each other with patch cables and connectors 142 a, so as tocross-connect the telecommunications equipment.

Main panel 124 includes an angled side panel 143. Side panel 143includes a vertical array of clips 144 adjacent each row 130 of openings132. Clips 144 rotate with main panel 124 and side panel 143. Each clip144 holds the cables from each connector 142 disposed in each row. Fromclips 144, the cables extend through a side access of each cable guide60, 62. Clips 144 help retain and protect the cables as main panel 124is rotated. Without clips 144, rotation of main panel 124 mayexcessively pull or push on the portions of the cables positioned withincable guides 60, 62.

Main panel 124 further includes upper and lower hinge plates 146, 148. Atop plate 150 and a bottom plate 152 define top 110 and bottom 112 oftermination module 32 and each includes a hinge plate portion 154, 156which cooperate with hinge plates 146, 148 to rotatably mount main panel124 to top and bottom plates 150, 152. Each of hinge plate portions 154,156 include a stop 158, 160 to limit rotation of main panel 124.

Main panel 124 is disposed at an angle to a vertical plane extendingparallel to a front and a rear of frame 20. Such angling permitsincreased density over adapters 134 arranged with the longitudinal axestransverse to the front and rear planes. Also, cable management isfacilitated by the angling of the cables toward cable guides 60, 62. Forright array 36 of modules 32, main panels 124 are angled toward theright side of rack 30. For left array 34 of modules 32, main panels 124are angled toward the left side of rack 30.

To maintain main panel 124 in the closed position, such as shown inFIGS. 1-5, two latches 162 are provided. Each latch 162 engages a tab164 extending from top and bottom plates 150, 152. Cable access door 122is also maintained in the closed position shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 by asecond latch 166 which engages an edge 168 of main panel 124. Cableaccess door 122 also overlaps edge 168. Both top and bottom plates 150,152 include cable passages 170, to permit vertical passing of cablesinto, and through termination module 32, if desired.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-10, internal cable management features areprovided within termination module 32. A cable clamp 182 securely holdsa cable entering termination module 32. A lower tab 181 a helps maintainthe cable in passage 170. Tab 181 a also maintains other cables passingthrough module 32 in passage 170. An intermediate tab 181 c and an uppertab 181 b are also provided to position desired cables in passage 170.From clamp 182, the individual fibers are routed through a cabletransitional area 171 including various cable guides 186 including tabs,spools, clips, or rings. A tie bracket 190 can be utilized with orinstead of clamp 182 (see FIGS. 9 and 10) to tie down cable enteringtermination module 32. On rear 140 of main panel 124, a rear tray 192 ispositioned in a central location on main panel 124 projectinghorizontally and rearwardly. Rear tray 192 includes a plurality ofhorizontal cable rings 194. A curved edge 196 helps prevent rear tray192 from catching on cables positioned within an interior of terminationmodule 132, either in vertical cable passage 170, or in cabletransitional area 171.

As shown in FIG. 8, an example cable 184 containing multiple fibersenters termination module 32 through bottom plate 152 in passage 170.Clamp 182 holds cable 184. A first fiber 184 a extends around upperspool or guides 186 a, past intermediate guides 186 b, and around lowerspool or guides 186 c, around lower corner guide 186 d to lower ring 188b, through horizontal ring 194 to one of the upper locations on mainpanel 124. Second example fiber 184 b extends around upper guides 186 a,past intermediate guides 186 b, around lower guides 186 c, back upwardpast intermediate guides 186 b, around upper guides 186 a, around uppercorner guide 186 e and through upper ring 188 a. From upper ring 188 a,second fiber 184 b passes through horizontal ring 194 to a lowerlocation on main panel 124. All of adapters 134 on main panel 124 can beconnected to individual fibers entering termination module 32. Foradditional termination modules mounted to frame 20, mounted abovetermination module 32, the cables will pass through the lowertermination modules to reach the upper termination modules in passage170. In use, left array 34 of frame 20 may be utilized to terminatecables entering the building. Right array 36 may be utilized toterminate cables connected to various telecommunications equipmentwithin the building. The fronts of each termination module 32 areutilized to run patch cables from the left side to the right side tocross-connect the various rear termination locations. The patch cablespass beneath inner bay management panel 40. From each front connectorlocation, the patch cables enter one of cable guide 60, 62 for verticalmanagement of the patch cables. From a lower end of cable guides 60, 62the cables pass horizontally to the other side of frame 20, the innerbay management panel 40, or to another frame or other equipment. Excesslengths of cable in the patch cables can be wound around appropriatespools 86 to conveniently store the excess lengths, and to avoidtangling the patch cables together. Alternatively, the patch cables mayrun from either the left or the right array 34, 36 to an adjacent frame,or to other equipment.

Referring now to FIGS. 14-24, a second preferred embodiment of a frame220 is shown for splicing, terminating, and managing fiber optic cableswithin the frame. An upper portion 222 of frame 220 defines atermination area. A lower portion 224 of frame 220 defines a splicearea. Cables containing one or more individual optical fibers enterframe 220 typically from an overhead cable environment through a top 226of frame 220, or from a raised floor environment at a bottom 228 offrame 220. If the cables are pre-terminated, the cables extend directlyto termination area 222. If the cables entering frame 220 are notpre-terminated, the cables extend to splice area 224 for splicing toterminated cables. From splice area 224, the cables extend totermination area 222. In termination area 222, a plurality of accessibletermination locations are provided for the terminated cables and forconnecting other cables to the terminated cables, such as patch cords orcables. Telecommunications equipment can be cross-connected between thetermination locations through frame 220.

Frame 220 includes a rack 230 which supports a plurality of terminationmodules 232. In the illustrated embodiment, left and right arrays 234,236 of termination modules 232 are provided. Each array 234, 236 in theillustrated embodiment includes three individual termination modules 232a (left side), 232 b (right side).

Rack 230 also supports a cable management panel 240 positionedvertically along one or both arrays 234, 236 of termination modules 232for organizing and storing excess lengths of patch cables. In theillustrated embodiment, two cable management panels 240 are provided.Panels 240 are joined to ends 231 of rack 230. Additional racks 230 canbe mounted to panels 240 as desired, with panels 240 serving as spacersbetween adjacent racks 230.

Each panel 240 includes two sections 240 a. As noted above with respectto frame 20, by providing individual termination modules 232 a, 232 band individual sections 240 a of cable management panel 240 all of whichare separately mountable to rack 230, these modules can be added atdifferent times to rack 230, and replaced, if desired. Also, customizedframes 220 can be provided where other fiber optic management equipmentcan be utilized in one or more of the areas in rack 230 instead of thesix termination modules 232 a, 232 b and the two sections 240 a of eachcable management panel 240 of the illustrated embodiment.

Rack 230 further supports a splice tray assembly 244, for holding aplurality of splice trays 46. Frame 220 includes two vertical stacks246, 248 of splice tray holders. Splice tray 46 as noted above for frame20 is usable for frame 220. Alternatively, other splice trays may beused.

Rack 230 further supports a horizontal cable tray 250 positioned belowsplice area 224. Horizontal cable tray 250 supports patch cables on afront of frame 220 extending between the left and right arrays 234, 236of termination modules 232. Tray 250 also supports patch cablesextending between frame 220 and further frames 220 or othertelecommunications equipment in an adjacent area.

Rack 230 further supports two vertical cable guides 260, 262, one oneach side of rack 230, for use in managing and protecting patch cablesadjacent to a front of frame 220. Cable guides 260, 262 include aplurality of spaced-apart fingers 265 which permit cable access to aninterior of each cable guide 260, 262 through a vertical side of eachguide. Each of cable guides 260, 262 is preferably made in segments 263,as part of the modular design of frame 220.

As above with respect to frame 20, components making up frame 220 arepreferably separate components held together by fasteners, to aid inassembly, and versatility in use. In the illustrated embodiment,termination modules 232, cable management panels 240, splice trayassembly 244, cable tray 250, and cable guides 260, 262 are separatefrom rack 230.

Frame 220 defines various access openings to permit cables to enterframe 220. At bottom 228 of frame 220, a center opening 266 allowscables to enter frame 220 from a raised floor environment. Centralpassage 268 allows the cables to pass to the individual splice trays 46.Clamps 267 and ties 269 are provided to secure the incoming cables toframe 220. A central passageway 270 links splice area 224 to terminationarea 222. Adjacent to top 226 of frame 220, an access opening 272 andcable clamps 275 are provided. For pre-terminated cables, the cables canbe passed directly through top opening 272 for termination in thetermination modules 232. For cables which are spliced to terminatedcables, opening 272 opens into a vertical passage 278 which extends downto central passageway 270 to splice area 224, and ties 269 for splicingto the termination cables at splices trays 46. Cable rings 274 areprovided to manage the passage of cables in termination area 222.

Each cable management panel 240 includes a center section 280, and oneor more vertically spaced spools 286 forwardly extending from centersection 280. Spools 286 provide for storage of excess cable lengths forpatch cables, such as the patch cables extending between left and rightarrays 234, 236 of termination modules 232. Each spool 286 preferablyincludes a front flange 287 to aid in cable retention on the spools 286.

Splice tray assembly 244 includes a main vertical support 290 and aplurality of divider walls 292 extending forwardly. The divider walls292 are preferably arranged in two vertical stacks 246, 248. Further,the divider walls 292 are preferably angled. Splice tray assembly 244 isshown for use with cables entering adjacent to top 226 of frame 220. Ifcables enter from bottom 228, it may be advantageous to angle dividerwalls 292 in an opposite direction, as shown in FIG. 27 for modifiedframe 520. To facilitate retention of splice trays 46 within theindividual compartments defined by divider walls 292, side lips 294 areprovided on opposite sides of each divider wall 292. Also, front notches295 are provided to facilitate ease of access to a stored splice tray46. The angling of dividers 292 aids in reducing the horizontal spacetaken up by splice tray assembly, and allows for sufficient cablepathway spacing to upper pathway 278.

Horizontal cable tray 250 includes a main horizontal portion 299, a rearwall 300, and one or more front walls 302. The front and rear walls 302,299 help protect and retain patch cables passing through horizontalcable tray 250.

Referring now to FIGS. 17-23, each termination module 232 includes a top310, a bottom 312, opposed sides 314, 316, and a rear 318. Side 314defines a side opening 315 bounded on three sides. Side opening 315permits cable access to an interior of module 232. The illustratedmodule 232 is from right array 236. Preferably each of terminationmodules 232 a, 232 b are identical but positioned in a flippedorientation. Therefore, top 310 and bottom 312 would be in a reversedorientation for the left array 234 of modules 232.

Each termination module 232 defines an open front 320 preferably closedoff by door or main panel 324 which is hingedly mounted to a mainhousing 322. Main panel 324 is rotatably mounted adjacent to side 316 bya hinge 328. Main panel 324 includes a plurality of openings 332 (seeFIGS. 14-16) each sized for holding one or more adapters 134. Openings332 are configured as elongated slots. To facilitate mounting ofadapters 134, angled retainers 336 are provided. As noted above, variousadapters 134 can be utilized including an SC type. Preferably, mainpanel 324 includes six upper openings 332, and six lower openings 332,each holding eight angled retainers 336 and adapters 134. Alternatively,individual openings can be provided for each adapter as noted above inthe embodiment of FIGS. 1-13.

As noted above with respect to frame 20, rear connectors 142 b areconnected to the cables entering frame 220 from the telecommunicationsequipment. A rear 340 of main panel 324 is primarily utilized as asemi-permanent connection between the connectors 142 b and adapters 134.A front 338 of main panel 324 defines a plurality of accessibletermination locations which can be connected between each other withpatch cables and connectors 142 a so as to cross-connect thetelecommunications equipment. Main panel 324 includes an angled sidepanel 343 including a vertical array of clips 344 adjacent each row ofadapters 134. Clips 344 rotate with main panel 324 and side panel 343.Each clip 344 holds the cables from each connector 142 a disposed ineach row. From clips 344, the cables extend through a side access ofeach cable guide 260, 262. Clips 344 help retain and protect the cablesas main panel 324 is rotated. Without clips 344, rotation of main panel324 may excessively pull or push on the portions of the cablespositioned within cable guides 260, 262.

Main panel 324 further includes upper and lower hinge plates 346, 348. Atop plate 350 and a bottom plate 352 define top 310 and bottom 312 oftermination module 232 and each includes a hinge plate portion 354, 356which cooperate with hinge plates 346, 348 to rotatably mount main panel324 to top and bottom plates 350, 352. Each of hinge plate portions 354,356 includes a stop 358, 360 to limit rotation of main panel 324.

Main panel 324 is disposed at an angle to a vertical plane extendingparallel to a front and a rear of frame 220. Such angling permitsincreased density over adapters arranged with the longitudinal axestransverse to the front and rear planes. Also, cable management isfacilitated by the angling of the cables toward cable guides 260, 262.For right array 236 of modules 232, main panels 324 are angled towardthe opposite side of rack 230. Similarly, for left array 234 of modules232, main panels 324 are angled toward the right side of rack 230. Useof the angled retainers 362 permits angling back of the cables towardthe respective right and left sides of rack 230. The angled retainers362 hold each adapter 134 so its longitudinal axis is at anon-transverse angle to the planar portion of main panel 324. Commonlyowned U.S. Pat. No. 5,214,735 shows example retainers usable with mainpanel 324. The disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 5,214,735 is incorporated byreference.

To maintain main panel 324 in the closed position, two latches 362 areprovided, similar to latches 162 noted above. Each latch 362 engages atab 364 extending from top and bottom plates 350, 352.

Referring now to FIGS. 20-23, internal cable management features areprovided within termination module 232. Cable clamps 382 securely holdthe cable or cables entering termination module 232 at side opening 315through side 314. Lower clamps 382 a are used for cables enteringtermination module 232 from above. Upper clamps 382 b are used for cableentering termination module 232 from below. Preferably, all of theclamps 382 are positioned at an angle. Clamps 382 are preferablypositioned on mounting flanges 383. From clamps 382, the individualfibers are routed through various cable guides 386 including tabs,spools, clips, or rings. A tie bracket 390 can be utilized with orinstead of clamps 382 to tie down cable entering termination module 332.On rear 340 of main panel 324, a rear tray 392 is positioned in acentral location on main panel 324 projecting horizontally andrearwardly. Rear tray 392 includes one or more horizontal cable rings394. A vertical lip 395 extends rearwardly from the free edge of mainpanel 324 to protect the cables and the connectors.

As shown in FIG. 21, example cables (fibers) enter termination module232 through side opening 315. Clamp 382 holds example first and secondfibers 384 a, 384 b. First fiber 384 a extends around lower spool orguide 386 a to an upper spool or guide 386 b around an upper cornerguide 386 c to upper ring 388 b, through horizontal ring 394 to one ofthe lower locations on main panel 324. Second example fiber 384 bextends from lower guide 386 a, to lower corner guide 386 d, and throughlower ring 388 a. From lower ring 388 a, second fiber 384 b passesthrough horizontal ring 394 to an upper location on main panel 324.

Frame 220 is used in a similar manner as frame 20 where the left andright arrays 234, 236 may be utilized to terminate cables entering thebuilding, and cables connected to various telecommunications within thebuilding. Frame 220 may be utilized to run patch cables in order tocross-connect the various rear termination locations. The patch cablespass beneath splice area 224. From each front connection location, thepatch cables enter one of cable guides 260, 262 for vertical managementof the patch cables. From a lower end of cable guides 260, 262, thecables pass horizontally to the other side of frame 220, or to anotherframe or other equipment. Excess lengths of patch cables can be woundaround appropriate spools 286 in one of cable management panels 240 toconveniently store the excess lengths, and to avoid tangling the patchcables together. Alternatively, the patch cables may run from either theleft or the right array 234, 236 to an adjacent frame, or to otherequipment.

Referring now to FIGS. 25 and 26, a frame 420 is shown which is similarto frame 220 for the features of the rack 230, termination modules 232,splice tray assembly 244, cable management panels 240, and guides 260,262. Frame 420 includes adjustable cable rings 474 in termination area222. Ring 474 includes outer arms 475 and inner moveable arms 476. Thelocation and spacing of arms 476 can be selected depending on thelocation and amount of cable to be held by rings 474. A cable ring 474is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 28 and 29. For example, separatespace is useful for top entering cables which first extend to splicearea 244, and for further cables extending up from splice area 244 totermination modules 232. Inner arms 476 are held by fasteners 477 to aconnecting section 478 of outer arms 475. Inner arms 476 define an innerchamber 480 for cables entering frame 420. The serrations 482 can beused to secure an o-ring or other tie to secure the cables in chamber480. Outside of chamber 480 in area 484, other cables can be positioned,such as cables from the splice area 244 extending to the terminationarea 224. Also, frame 420 includes a lower opening 480 so as to allowcables to pass to a rear side of frame 420, for passing the cable to asecond frame mounted back-to-back with frame 420, or to connect to othertelecommunications equipment.

Frame 520 of FIG. 27, noted above, includes splice tray assembly 244mounted in an inverse position so that the dividers 292 angle downwardlyin a direction toward the center of frame 520. The arrangement of FIG.27 is useful for managing cables entering from bottom 528 which areterminated at splice tray assembly 244. To increase manufacturingefficiencies, assembly 244 is identical in frames 420, 520 butselectively mounted in the desired orientation.

Referring now to FIGS. 30-37, a fourth preferred embodiment of a frame620 is shown for splicing, terminating, and managing fiber optic cableswithin the frame. An upper portion 622 of frame 620 defines atermination area. A lower portion 624 of frame 620 defines a splicearea, as for example described above for the embodiments shown in FIGS.1-29. Cables containing one or more individual optical fibers enterframe 620 typically from an overhead cable environment through a top 626of frame 620, or from a raised floor environment at a bottom 628 offrame 620. If the cables are pre-terminated, the cables extend directlyto termination area 622. If the cables entering frame 620 are notpre-terminated, the cables extend to splice area 624 for splicing toterminated cables.

Frame 620 includes a rack 630 which supports a plurality of terminationmodules 632. In the illustrated embodiment, left and right arrays oftermination modules 632 are provided. In FIGS. 30-32, only the rightarray 636 is shown. Each array in the illustrated embodiment includesthree individual termination modules 632 b (only 2 are shown).

Frame 620 is used to cross-connect telecommunications equipment throughthe termination locations provided by the frame. Frame 620 also includesa cable management panel (not shown), as described above, and ahorizontal cable tray 650 positioned below splice area 624.

Rack 630 further supports two vertical cable guides 660, 662, one oneach side of rack 630, for use in managing and protecting patch cablesadjacent to a front of frame 620. Cable guides 660, 662 include aplurality of fingers 664, including one angled finger 665. Each of cableguides 660, 662 is preferably made in segments 663, as part of themodular design of frame 620. Each segment 663 includes a base section670, a side section 672, and a hinge 674 for hingedly mounting frontdoors (not shown) to rack 630. Fingers 664, 665 all extend from sidesection 672.

As above with respect to frames 20, 220, components making up frame 620are preferably separate components held together by fasteners, to aid inassembly, and versatility in use. In the illustrated embodiment,termination modules 632, and cable guides 660, 662 are separate fromrack 630.

Referring now to FIGS. 33-36, each termination module 632 includes a top710, a bottom 712, opposed sides 714, 716, and a rear 718. Side 714defines a side opening 715 bounded on three sides. Side opening 715permits cable access to an interior of module 632. The illustratedmodule in FIGS. 33-37 is from right array 636. As opposed to thetermination modules 232 a, 232 b noted above, termination module 632from right array 636 is not identical to the termination modules for usein the left array, as will be seen from the following discussion.

Each termination module 632 defines an open front 720 preferably closedoff by door or main panel 724 which is hingedly mounted to main housing722, in a similar manner as module 232 noted above. Main panel 724 isconstructed in a similar manner as main panel 324 noted above withrespect to the mounting of adapters 134. The main panels 724 are shownfully loaded with adapters 134.

Instead of clips 344 as noted above for main panel 324, main panel 724includes a plurality of guides or extensions 744, one adjacent to eachrow of adapters 134. Guides 744 extend from side panel 743. Guides 744rotate with main panel 724 and side panel 743. Each guide 744 holds thecables from each connector 142 a disposed in each row. From guides 744,the cables extend through a side access of the closest vertical cableguide 660, 662. Guides 744 help retain and protect the cables as mainpanel 724 is rotated. Without guides 744, rotation of main panel 724 mayexcessively pull or push on the portions of the cables positioned withinvertical cable guides 660, 662.

Guides 744 are preferably formed as extensions of planar side panel 743.Sheet metal is a convenient material for making main panel 724 and sidepanel 743, as well as guides 744. Each guide 744 includes a mainextension 746, with an angled tab 748, angled toward the respectivevertical cable guide 660, 662. Extending vertically on opposite sides oftab 748 are first and second fingers 750, 752. A slot 754 is formedbetween one finger 750, 752 of one guide 744 and an opposite finger 752,750 of an adjacent guide 744 above or below the respective guide. Slot754 is sized for receipt of cables, such as during installation orremoval of the cables. Preferably, slot 754 is at an angle to thehorizontal, to help limit each cable from falling out of guides 744during movement of other cables, or movement of main panel 724. An edgeprotector 756 is snapped over main extension 746 to protect the cablesfrom possible damage from the sharper edges of main extension 746, suchas occurs if sheet metal is used.

Like main panel 324 noted above, main panel 724 is hingedly mounted top710 and bottom 712 of termination module 632. Further, main panel 724 isdisposed at an angle to a vertical plane extending parallel to a frontand a rear of frame 620. Further, main panel 724 includes the use ofangled retainers 362 as noted above. To maintain main panel 724 in theclosed position, two vertically operated latches 762 are provided,similar to the latches noted above which operate horizontally.

Referring now to FIGS. 34 and 35, internal cable management features areprovided within termination module 632. Cable clamps 782 securely holdthe cable or cables entering termination module 632 at side opening 715through side 714. Lower clamps 782 a are used for cables enteringtermination module 632 from below. Upper clamps 782 b are used forcables entering termination module 632 from above. Preferably, all ofclamps 782 are positioned at an angle. Clamps 782 are preferablypositioned on mounting flanges 783. From clamp 782, the individualfibers are routed through various cable guides 786 including tabs,spools, clips, or rings. A tie bracket can be utilized with or insteadof the clamps to tie down cable entering termination module 632. On rear740 of main panel 724, a rear tray 792 is positioned along a lower edgeof main panel 724 projecting horizontally and rearwardly. Rear tray 792includes one or more horizontal cable rings 794. A vertical lip 795extends rearwardly from the free edge of main panel 724 to protect thecables and the connectors.

As shown in FIG. 35, example cables (fibers) enter termination module632 through side opening 715. Clamp 782 holds example first and secondfibers 784 a, 784 b. Both fibers extend around lower spool or guide 786a to an upper spool or guide 786 b through an upper ring 786 c, andthrough horizontal ring 794 to one of the connection locations on mainpanel 724.

Referring now to FIG. 37, a rear cover 800 is supplied for protectingthe cables adjacent to the connection locations on a rear side of mainpanel 724. In FIG. 37, a termination module 632′ from the left array offrame 620 is shown. The module 632′ of FIG. 37 is a mirror image of themodule 632 of FIG. 34. Cover 800 mounts to rear tray 792 w/with a tab802 over lip 796 of tray 792. A leaf spring 804 fits into notch 798. Twotop tabs 806, 808 engage a top of panel 724 to further secure cover 800.

Referring now to FIGS. 38-58, a fifth preferred embodiment of a frame920 is shown for managing fiber optic cables within the frame. Frame 920can be used with splice tray assemblies 44, 224, and termination modules32, 232, 632, with hinged doors as noted above. Frame 920 includestermination modules 940 which provide the termination function as formodules 32, 232, 632, and further include couplers used for monitoringand/or testing fiber optic signal transmission. In the illustratedexample, an upper portion 922 of frame 920 defines a termination area. Alower portion 924 of frame 920 defines a secondary area, such as forsplicing as described above for the embodiments of FIGS. 1-37.Alternatively, the secondary area can include additional terminationareas by populating frame 920 with similar terminations as in upperportion 922. Still further, lower portion 924 can provide cable storagelocations, such as including spools.

Cables containing one or more individual optical fibers enter frame 920typically from an overhead cable environment through a top 926 of frame920, or from a raised floor environment at a bottom 928 of frame 920. Ifthe cables are pre-terminated, the cables extend directly to terminationarea 922 and into central cable passageway 970. If the cables enteringframe 920 are not pre-terminated, the cables extend to lower portion 924for splicing to terminated cables and then through passage 979 totermination area 922. Cables in central passageway 970 enter thetermination modules 940 through side access openings as will bedescribed below.

Frame 920 includes a rack 930 which supports a plurality of terminationmodules 940 along right side 934. Along left side 932 of frame 920 aretermination modules 632, as described above for the embodiment of FIGS.30-37. If desired, one or more termination modules 940 can also populateleft side 932.

Frame 920 is used to cross-connect telecommunications equipment throughthe termination locations provided by the frame. Frame 920 is also usedto monitor, test or provide other functions with respect to the signalspassing through termination modules 940, such as splitting, combining,etc. Frame 920 may also include a cable management panel (not shown) asdescribed above along the right or left sides, and a horizontal cabletray 950 at or below lower portion 924.

Rack 930 further supports two vertical cable guides 960, 962 similar toguides 660, 662 noted above, for use in managing and protecting patchcables adjacent to a front of frame 920.

As above with respect to frames 20, 220, 420, 620, components making upframe 920 are preferably separate components held together by fasteners,to aid in assembly, and versatility in use. In the illustratedembodiment, termination modules 632, 940 and cable guides 960, 962 areseparate from rack 930. Modules 632, 940 mount to rear panel 942 of rack930.

Referring now to FIGS. 41-49, each termination module 940 includes a top1010, a bottom 1012, opposed sides 1014, 1016, and a rear 1018. Side1014 defines a side opening 1015 bounded on four sides. Side opening1015 permits cable access and user access to an interior of terminationmodule 940 from central passageway 970. The illustrated module in FIGS.41-49 is from the right array 936. Termination module 940 can be flippedso as to create a left array, somewhat similar to termination modules232 a, 232 b noted above. Alternatively, right and left modules can bedesigned for use on only one side, as for modules 632.

Each termination module 940 defines an open front 1020 through a mainpanel section 1024 which receives individual connector modules or units1200, such as further illustrated in FIGS. 50-58. With respect totermination module 632 noted above, main panel 724 defined the varioustermination locations. With respect to termination module 940, the frontfaces 1202 of each connector module 1200 cooperate with each other intermination module 940 to create the array of termination locations of amain panel 1025 of termination module 940. Each connector module 1200allows for the mounting of front adapters 134 in one or more openings1203 associated with each connector module 1200. The termination modules940 of FIGS. 38 and 39 are shown without the adapters 134 in openings1203. Any number of openings can be provided, such as one for all theadapters of each module 1200, or more openings, such as one per adapter,or three (2 adapters 134 per opening) in the illustrated embodiment.

The main or front panel section 1025 of termination module 940 definesopen front 1020. On one side 1026 a vertical array of guides 1044 areprovided for protecting and retaining the cables, one guide adjacent toeach row of adapters 134. Side 1026 extends generally parallel to side1016 of termination module 940. In the illustrated embodiment, one guide1044 is provided per connector module 1200. Each guide 1044 holds thecables from each front connector 142 a disposed in each row. From guides1044, the cables extend through a side access of the closest verticalcable guide 660, 662.

In the illustrated preferred embodiment, connector module 1200 is slidinto position in termination module 940 and held in a desired verticalposition in module 940. An opposite side 1028 of main panel section 1025includes a plurality of guides or notches 1030 for slideably receiving aguide or side flange 1228 of connector module 1200. Side 1028 furtherincludes openings 1032 for receiving a fastener or latch 1224 ofconnector module 1200. Opposite side 1026 includes notches 1034 forreceiving a similar fastener 1226 on an opposite side of connectormodule 1200.

Termination module 940 includes connector module holders disposed in theinterior. In the illustrated embodiment, interior horizontal shelves1050 support and hold the individual connector modules 1200. Shelves1050 are partial planar shelves, not filling the entire inside oftermination module 940. This allows front access through open front 1020for mounting termination module 940 to frame 920 through rear fastenerholes 1052, and rear alignment holes 1054 through rear 1018. Alignmentholes 1054 assist an installer by receiving pegs associated with rearpanel 942 of rack 930, prior to the insertion of fasteners throughfastener holes 1052.

Side 1016 and rear 1018 each include a column of horizontal slots 1072,1070 for supporting an edge of each shelf 1050. Shelves 1050 furtherinclude tabs 1074, 1076 for receiving a fastener for mounting tofastener holes 1078, 1080 in rear 1018 and side 1016 to fasten eachshelf 1050 in place in termination module 940.

Termination module 940 further includes one or more cable supports 1056at side opening 1015. Cable supports 1056 protect cables from sharpbends of from contacting any nearby sharp edges. Cable supports 1056include a longitudinal section 1058 extending from side 1057, a bendsection 1060, and an edge protector 1062. Top and bottom supports 1056a, b are turned 90° relative to a horizontal longitudinal axis and helpprotect entering cables from damage by edge 1017.

Referring now to FIGS. 50-58, connector module 1200 includes a housing1201 including front 1202, and a rear 1204. Front 1202 and rear 1204 aregenerally planar. Major sides 1206, 1208 are parallel to one another andspaced-apart to define an interior which cooperates with spaced-apartminor sides 1210, 1212 to house fiber optic circuitry. Minor sides 1210,1212 are generally parallel to each other. Housing 1201 further definesa rear notch 1216 extending from minor side 1210 to rear 1204. Formounting connector module 1200 to termination module 940, end flanges1220, 1222 are provided, for supporting fasteners, locks or latches1224, 1226. Flange 1222 is angled relative to the plane defined by front1202.

Front 1202 of connector module includes a plurality of adapters 134 forreceiving connectors 142 a of patch cables. Angled retainers 362 holdeach adapter 134 so its longitudinal axis is at a non-transverse angleto the plane defined by front 1202. In rear notch 1216, side segment1230 of housing 1201 provides a mounting surface for rear adapters 134a. Each rear adapter 134 a receives a rear connector 142 b for thecables from passageway 970. Rear retainers 1240 hold each rear adapter134 a to housing 1201. Rear snap in retainers 1240 allow convenientassembly, and removal if necessary. Adapters 134, 134 a can be SC type(as shown), FC type, ST type or other. Side flange 1228 extends frommajor side 1206. If connector module 1200 is used on left side 932 offrame 920 for a termination module 940 on the left side, connectormodule 1200 is flipped over to have its front angle toward the rightside 934 of frame 920. An angled side segment 1231 connects side 1210 toside segment 1230.

Disposed within housing 1201 of connector module 1200 is one or morecouplers 1242, such as splitters, combiners, wave division multiplexers,etc. for connecting between rear adapters 134 and front adapters 134. Inthe example of FIGS. 57 and 58, 1×2 splitters are provided for couplers1242. Rear internal connectors 1244 and fibers 1246 connect to couplers1242. From couplers 1242, further fibers 1248 connect to furtherinternal front connectors 1250 at front adapters 134. Connectors 1244,1250 are similar connectors to connectors 142 a, b. A coupler holder1260 may be provided, as desired to secure couplers 1242 in place. Fibermanagement guides 1262, 1264 may be provided as appropriate to securefibers 1246, 1248 in position. In the example shown, fibers 1246 followan S-path, followed by a loop-path before connecting to couplers 1242,and fibers 1248 follow a loop-path.

By providing rear notch 1216, connectors 142 b extending from rearadapters 134 a along an exterior of housing 1201 are protected and donot protrude into central passageway 970 of frame 920. Further, thenotch 1216 also allows for a greater front panel surface area, as wellas a greater volume within the housing 1201 for routing of fibers fromthe rear adapters 134 a to the couplers 1242, and then to the frontadapters 134.

Referring now to FIGS. 59-61, a sixth preferred embodiment of a frame1320 is shown with three termination modules 632 on left side, onetermination module 940, a column of splice trays 244 with divider walls292, and a column of cable management spools 86 and spaced-apart sides82, 84. Further cable guides 1234 and walls 1236 of splice trays 244 areadded to assist with cable management in vertical cable guides 960, 962.FIGS. 59-61 further illustrate the variety and versatility of thevarious frames of the present invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 62-65, a modified preferred embodiment of a frame1420 is shown. Termination module 1440 includes room for less connectormodules 1200 (10 instead of 12) over termination module 940. Only upperand lower guides 1056 a, b are provided, allowing greater access to rearadapters 134 a and rear connectors 142 b. Also, module 1440 cannot beflipped to the left side of frame 1420. A mirror image of module 1440with appropriately configured notches 1030 to receive flipped connectormodules 1200 would have to be constructed, so as to fit on the left sideof frame 1420.

Referring now to FIGS. 66-76, modified preferred embodiments for atermination module 1540 and connector modules 1600, 1700 are shown.Instead of planar shelves 1050 as in termination modules 940, 1440, avertical array of longitudinal guides or rails 1560 is provided. Rails1560 provide additional interior room within termination module 1540over shelves 1050. Connector module 1660 is similar in many respects toconnector module 1200. Side flange 1228 is received in one of notches1030 in termination module 1540. A second side flange 1620 from majorside 1618 is provided to slideably cooperate with one of rails 1560, tomount and hold connector module 1600 in termination module 1540.

By using longitudinal rails 1560, instead of the larger planar shelves1050, connector modules of different heights can be conveniently used,if desired. For example, a modified connector module 1700 of FIGS. 73-76can be utilized in termination module 1540 wherein two rows of openings1703 are provided on front face 1702. Side flange 1720 is received inone of rails 1560 (1560 a in FIG. 66). With the connector module 1700having a double height, or triple, quadruple, etc., not all of rails1560 are utilized. However, because of the low profile provided by rails1560, the multi-heighted connector modules 1700 are easily utilized intermination module 1540.

Referring now to FIGS. 77-83, a further preferred embodiment of a frame1820 is shown. Frame 1820 has particular application as an outside plantenclosure for use in cross-connecting outside plant cables. Frame 1820includes an enclosure 1822 which fits over and protects the outsideplant cables extending upwardly from the ground into enclosure 1822.Moveable panels or doors 1824, 1826 allow access to an interior ofenclosure 1822.

Frame 1820 includes a rack 1830 which supports vertical cable guides1840, splice tray holders 1850, termination modules 1832, and variouscable management devices. Frame 1820 includes termination module 1832with pivoting front panels 1834, which hold the fiber optic terminationssimilar to termination modules 632 described above. Other terminationmodules, such as modules 32, 232, 940, 1440, and 1540 described abovemay be used. The termination modules 1832 can include pass-throughconnections, or connector modules including various fiber opticcomponents, as desired.

Termination modules 1832 communicate with vertical cable guides 1840 forpatch cords linking the front termination locations between the left1836 and right 1838 of rack 1830. Termination modules 1832 arepositioned on a front side 1842 of rack 1830. Positioned on a rear side1844 of rack 1830 are splice tray holders 1850. A plurality of angleddivider walls 1852 or other walls define the individual splice trayholders, for holding individual splice trays 1854, in a similar manneras noted above. A cable pass-through 1870 links the front and rear sidesof rack 1830.

The outside plant cables are clamped to rack 1830 at clamps 1880. Fromclamps 1880, the cables are positioned in one of left or right outerpassages 1882 or 1884 and then enter rear central passage 1886 forsplicing to cables at trays 1854. From trays 1854 the cables passthrough pass-through 1870 to termination modules 1832. Lower radiuslimiters 1888 and upper radius limiters 1890 define outer passages 1882,1884. Rings 1892 in central passage 1886 define cable pathways and cabletie locations for the cables extending to the individual splice trays,and from the splice trays to pass-through 1870.

Rack 1830 also includes storage radius limiters 1894 which are utilizedfor storage of cable at the rear side 1844 of rack 1830. In thatsituation, the cables are wound around radius limiters 1888, 1890, 1894through outer passages 1882, 1884.

For cables passing from the rear side 1844 of rack 1830 to the frontside 1842 through pass-through 1870, the cables enter front centralpassage 1896 for entry into one of termination modules 1832. Centerspools 1900 assist with cable management of the cables linking splicetrays 1854 to termination modules 1832. Patch cords extend from thefront of termination modules 1832 into the nearest vertical cable guide1840 and down to lower cable area 1898. Lower spools 1906 assist withcable management of the patch cables extending across lower area 1898.Excess lengths of the patch cords can be stored on center spools 1900.To further assist with cable management, center spools 1900 include anend plate 1902 and a mid plate 1904. Plates 1902, 1904 divide each spool1900 into first and second areas 1903, 1905. First area 1903 is forguiding the cables, such as pigtails, from the rear side 1844 of theframe, before entry into one of modules 1832. Second area 1905 is forany patch cords wound around spools 1900. Lower spools 1906 also includea cable retention end plate 1908.

Frame 1820 has particular application in the outside plant situation.Separate access is provided for splicing and terminating, to allow fieldtechnicians to access only the required components, and further to helpminimize fiber movement.

Frame 2020 of FIGS. 84 and 85 includes modified center spools 2100including modified midplates 2104. Midplates 2104 are more circular inperimeter with projecting fingers 2106. Holes 2108 on each finger 2106can be used to tie the cables in position to assist with cablemanagement.

The above specification, examples and data provide a completedescription of the manufacture and use of the invention. Since manyembodiments of the invention can be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claimshereinafter appended.

What is claimed is:
 1. A telecommunications apparatus comprising: aframe defining a first area and a separate second area; a plurality ofmodules that mount at the first area of the frame, each of the modulesincluding a module housing containing at least one splitter, each of themodules including a plurality of fiber optic adapters positioned atfronts of the module housings, the fiber optic adapters each includinginner and outer aligned openings for receiving fiber optic connectors,the inner openings being accessible from inside the module housings andthe outer openings being accessible from outside the module housings,the modules also including first optical fibers that extend from thesplitters and have connectorized ends positioned within the inneropenings of the fiber optic adapters; a panel positioned at the secondarea of the frame, the panel being pivotally connected relative to theframe by a hinge; and second optical fibers having connectorized endscarried with the panel.
 2. The telecommunications apparatus of claim 1,further comprising one or more doors that pivot relative to the frame,the one or more doors protecting the first and second areas when in aclosed position and that allow access to the first and second areas whenin an open position.
 3. The telecommunication apparatus of claim 1,wherein the modules each include a single row of the fiber opticadapters.
 4. The telecommunication apparatus of claim 1, wherein theconnectorized ends of the second optical fibers are received withinfiber optic adapters mounted on the panel.
 5. The telecommunicationsapparatus of claim 4, wherein patch cords are routed from the fiberoptic adapters mounted on the panel to the fiber optic adapters of themodules.
 6. The telecommunications apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a plurality vertically spaced-apart spool structurespositioned between the first and second areas for storing excess opticalfiber.
 7. The telecommunications apparatus of claim 6, wherein theoptical fiber is stored in half-loops.
 8. The telecommunicationsapparatus of claim 1, wherein the second optical fiber correspond to atleast one outside plant cable.
 9. The telecommunications apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the module housings include spaced-apart and parallelmajor side walls and spaced-apart and parallel minor side walls thatcooperate to define interior regions of the module housings, wherein thesplitters are positioned within the interior regions, and wherein themajor and minor side walls extend between the fronts of the modulehousings and rears of the module housings.
 10. The telecommunicationsapparatus of claim 9, wherein the modules each include a single row ofthe fiber optic adapters, and wherein the fiber optic adapters havecross-dimensions that extend a majority of a distance defined betweenthe major side walls of the module housings.
 11. The telecommunicationsapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of verticallyspaced-apart fiber management fingers positioned along one side of thefirst area.
 12. The telecommunications apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a plurality of vertically spaced-apart fiber managementstructures positioned between the first and second areas for storingexcess optical fiber, the fiber management structures including curvedsurfaces that provide fiber bend radius protection.
 13. Thetelecommunications apparatus of claim 12, further comprising a pluralityof vertically spaced-apart fiber management fingers positioned along oneside of the first area.
 14. An enclosure comprising: an outside planthousing defining an interior, the outside plant housing having at leastone door for accessing the interior of the housing; a plurality ofmodules that mount at a first area within the interior of the outsideplant housing, each of the modules including a module housing containingat least one splitter, each of the modules including a plurality offiber optic adapters positioned at fronts of the module housings, thefiber optic adapters each including inner and outer aligned openings forreceiving fiber optic connectors, the inner openings being accessiblefrom inside the module housings and the outer openings being accessiblefrom outside the module housings, the modules also including firstoptical fibers that extend from the splitters and have connectorizedends positioned within the inner openings of the fiber optic adapters; apivotal panel positioned at a second area within the interior of theoutside plant housing, the second area being spaced from the first area;and second optical fibers having connectorized ends carried with thepivotal panel.
 15. The enclosure of claim 14, wherein the modules eachinclude a single row of the fiber optic adapters.
 16. The enclosure ofclaim 14, further comprising a plurality of vertically spaced-apartspool structures positioned between the first and second areas forstoring excess optical fiber.
 17. The enclosure of claim 16, wherein theoptical fiber is stored in half-loops.
 18. The enclosure of claim 14,wherein the module housings include spaced-apart and parallel major sidewalls and spaced-apart and parallel minor side walls that cooperate todefine interior regions of the module housings, wherein the splittersare positioned within the interior regions, and wherein the major andminor side walls extend between the fronts of the module housings andrears of the module housings.
 19. The enclosure of claim 18, wherein themodules each include a single row of the fiber optic adapters, andwherein the fiber optic adapters have cross-dimensions that extend amajority of a distance defined between the major side walls of themodule housings.
 20. The enclosure of claim 14, further comprising aplurality of vertically spaced-apart fiber management fingers positionedalong one side of the first area.
 21. The enclosure of claim 14, furthercomprising a plurality vertically spaced-apart fiber managementstructures positioned between the first and second areas for storingexcess optical fiber, the fiber management structures including curvedsurfaces that provide fiber bend radius protection.
 22. The enclosure ofclaim 21, further comprising a plurality of vertically spaced-apartfiber management fingers positioned along one side of the first area.23. A method for using the enclosure of claim 14, wherein the secondoptical fiber are optically connected to the first optical fibers.